Green job of the week: PV Installer

SolarCity is hiring 100 new photovoltaic installers in Southern California and in the Greater Phoenix, Arizona area.

There is a distinct focus on renewable energy as one solution to both the environmental and economic woes that this country is facing. Employment in the clean energy industry has greatly outpaced traditional employment. SolarCity, a provider of solar power systems, is hiring 100 new PV installers when many companies have to cut back due to decreasing revenues.

Company: SolarCity

Position: PV Installers (multiple experience levels)

Location: Los Angeles and Santa Ana, CA and Phoenix, AZ

Salary: Depending on experience

SolarCity is hiring 100 new PV installers of varying experience levels to help meet the growing demand for clean energy products in southern California and in the greater Phoenix, Arizona area. Job growth in the renewable energy sector in these states is on the rise. Between 1998 and 2007, clean energy jobs grew at a rate of 7.7% in California. During the same time period, the industry experienced a 21.3% job growth rate in Arizona. Source: Clean Energy Economy (PDF)

Although funding for green jobs is just beginning to make it to company coffers, SolarCity is able to expand their workforce without Recovery Act grants. The company recently closed a tax equity fund with U.S. Bank. The partnership will allow SolarCity to provide a lease option for both residential and commercial customers. This availability of this new funding option has led to an increase in business for the company.

SolarCity is looking for individuals to fill PV installer positions at three different levels: PV Installer, Senior PV Installer, and Lead Installer. The PV Installer position is designed for individuals with construction, roofing, or electrical experience that may not have specific solar industry experience. This position provides an opportunity for people to break into the green jobs industry.

Senior PV Installers need to have more than one year of PV installation experience, familiarity with the 2005 NEC code sections specific to PV installations, and a thorough knowledge of the tools and techniques used in the solar industry.

Lead Installers will need to have at least two years of installation experience plus at least six months as a team leader. The Leader Installers will manage a team of at least two other installers, read blueprints, diagnose and repair PV systems, strong organizational skills, and much more.

In addition to the above requirements, prospective employees must be willing to work in residential, commercial, and service departments, have the ability to withstand extreme working environments, be able to lift at least 75 pounds, and have a clean, valid drivers license.

SolarCity’s customers include thousands of homeowners, more than 75 high schools and universities, state, local and federal government agencies such as the U.S. General Services Administration (GSA) and Department of Homeland Security, national landmarks such as San Francisco’s Grace Cathedral, and well-known corporate clients, including Intel, British Motors and eBay.

To apply for one of these PV Installer positions, please send a resume and cover letter to jobs@solarcity.com with a note that you learned about this green jobs opportunity from the Mother Nature Network.